Prime Minister Janez Janša’s Message on the International Day of Older Persons

SLOVENIA, October 1 - As long as there are too many older people in our country who, despite having worked hard all their lives, still live below the poverty line; as long as loneliness among older people remains a serious issue; and as long as the state is unable to provide every individual in the later stages of life with a genuine sense of security, belonging and human closeness, we have not done enough.

We respect and value your knowledge, life experience, values and memories, which are an important part of our shared identity. We are grateful to you for helping to build our community and our country through your work and sacrifices.

That is why the coalition agreement clearly states that pensions will be treated as an acquired right rather than as a social transfer. We will address inequalities in the pension system and establish a demographic fund to ensure the long-term stability and financing of pension rights. In this way, we are laying solid foundations for secure and decent pensions, not only today but also for future generations.

During this term of office, we have already adopted an emergency act on long-term care, which addresses a number of injustices. Long-term care will become more accessible, as procedures for exercising rights are being simplified. We have also adopted the Act for the Development of Slovenia, which will be put to a referendum. This is a law aimed at improving the well-being of all citizens. It will exempt pensioners from paying the long-term care contribution and help ensure lower food and energy prices. It also introduces the possibility of continuing to work after retirement while receiving both a full salary and a full pension. Because that is only fair. Pensioners have already paid their share into the pension system.

As our young people are returning to lecture halls today, it is also important to recognise that generations can learn from one another. The experience of older people provides an important foundation for the future, while the energy and creativity of younger generations create new opportunities. In a time of rapid change, we must never lose sight of the importance of human connection. No technology can replace respect, conversation, friendship and a sense of belonging.

I wish all pensioners and older people good health, security and the respect you rightly deserve.

Janez Janša
Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia

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